Key Takeaways:
- Tulsa, Oklahoma, has experienced a significant boost in its entertainment industry in 2025, with various film, television, music, and live theater productions bringing national attention and economic impact to the city.
- The city’s creative industries have created jobs and opportunities for local talent, with productions such as "The Lowdown" and "The Outsiders" musical showcasing Tulsa’s locations and music.
- The growth of film production in the region has extended beyond Tulsa, with Collinsville opening the first city-owned film studio in Oklahoma.
- Music legends such as Bono, The Edge, and Paul McCartney have visited Tulsa, drawing attention from music fans across the country.
- The city is expected to continue its momentum in 2026, with major events and celebrations planned for the 100th anniversary of Route 66.
Introduction to Tulsa’s Entertainment Industry
Tulsa, Oklahoma, has had a remarkable year in the entertainment industry, with a wide range of film, television, music, and live theater productions bringing national attention and economic impact to the city. From Hollywood productions to Broadway tours and legendary musicians, city leaders say 2025 marked a turning point for Tulsa’s creative industries. The city’s entertainment industry has been thriving, with various productions showcasing its unique locations, music, and talent.
The Lowdown: A Television Series
One of the biggest entertainment stories of the year was "The Lowdown," a television series created by Oklahoma filmmaker Sterlin Harjo. After filming the pilot in Tulsa in 2024, the production returned in 2025 to shoot the remainder of its first season. The series features Tulsa locations and locally made music, providing a platform for the city’s talent to shine. The production also created jobs locally, giving Oklahomans a chance to work in an industry that has traditionally been centered on the coasts. According to Meg Gould, executive director for the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture, "It’s been incredible… You get to see all the gems of Tulsa and little secret gems that are hidden throughout the series, but you also get the gift of the music that is from Tulsa."
Collinsville’s Film Studio
The growth of film production in the region extended beyond Tulsa, with Collinsville opening the first city-owned film studio in Oklahoma. The studio, called Emerge Studios, is expected to be the largest in Oklahoma and the only municipally owned studio in the U.S. This development is a significant milestone for the city, with leaders betting big on local filmmakers and future productions. According to Randy Wayne of Rebellium Films, "Collinsville may not be known to the rest of the country, but it will be pretty quickly."
The Outsiders Musical
Tulsa was also featured on the national stage with "The Outsiders" musical. The touring production launched with opening-night performances in Green Country, complete with a red-carpet premiere attended by cast members and fans. The musical is based on the classic novel by S.E. Hinton, which is set in Tulsa. The production’s launch in the city was a significant event, with cast members visiting The Outsiders House Museum to connect with Tulsa’s history ahead of the show’s premiere. According to John Peterson, who plays "Brill" in the musical, "I’m so thrilled to be able to tell this story to people who care… Who care so much about the story. It feels very special."
Music Legends Visit Tulsa
Music was another major driver of Tulsa’s national exposure in 2025. Bono and The Edge visited Cain’s Ballroom to receive a prestigious award, drawing attention from music fans across the country. Bono even played a little air guitar and sang for spectators afterward. The same month, Paul McCartney performed at the BOK Center, taking time to enjoy views along the Arkansas River. According to McCartney, "Which is a pretty groovy one," in a now-famous social media video during his visit.
Looking Ahead to 2026
City leaders say the momentum isn’t slowing down, with the 100th anniversary of Route 66 approaching in 2026. The Tulsa Film and Music Office says major events, art installations, and musical celebrations are already being planned. According to Meg Gould, "I think 2026 is going to be pretty impressive." The city is expected to continue its growth in the entertainment industry, with a focus on showcasing its unique locations, music, and talent.
Economic Impact
The increased attention is about more than recognition, with officials saying that film crews, touring productions, and visiting artists are bringing real dollars into the local economy. The Tulsa Film and Music Office says that these productions are spending money at Oklahoma restaurants, shops, and businesses while putting the city on screens and stages nationwide. This economic impact is a significant benefit for the city, with the potential to create jobs and stimulate growth in the local economy. Overall, Tulsa’s entertainment industry has had a remarkable year, and the city is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.
